Pats Peak cut new trails, improves snowmaking

Pats Peak Ski Area i expanding the new Cascade Basin on the backside of the mountain, which opened last season, with two additional trails and another glade trail for the upcoming season and add 100 percent snowmaking capacity. (Kathleen Baglio Humphreys)

HENNIKER — Summer has been busy at Pats Peak as crews cut trails for beginners to experts along with a new glade trail as part of the Cascade Basin expansion.

The new beginner trail, Cascade Brook, will meander and follow the contour lines with some great twists and turns. Glade skiing is available to skiers right off this trail.

For skiers and riders who prefer a black diamond run, Scirocco Trail is expected to offer some of the best sun and bumps on the mountain and a little tree skiing for added excitement along the way. The trail will exit at the bottom of the lift.

Last season, Pats Peak premiered Cascade Basin on the backside of the main mountain, offering more terrain and challenges to skiers and riders. It featured a new triple lift, four trails and one glade trail and will have company this year with the expansion of two new trails and another glade run.

“We received many rave reviews on the new area last season. Our skiers and riders enjoyed exploring the new terrain. We are excited to showcase the new trails and glade this upcoming season.” said general man ager Kris Blomback.

The new trails will have 100 percent snowmaking coverage to provide quality snow surfaces. Future plans include night skiing and additional terrain parks.

In addition to the new terrain, Pats Peak plans to add their snowmaking arsenal with seven additional SMI Snowmaking Fan Guns and 20 new energy-efficient HKD Snowmaking Guns. The energy-efficient guns require 80 percent less compressed air and work in marginal temperature conditions.

“We are continuing our commitment to give back to our skiers/riders with exciting improvements every season. We are excited to continue with the Cascade Basin expansion for this upcoming season. We understand that quality snowmaking is important, therefore we continue to upgrade our snowmaking system to be sure to give our skiers the best snow surface possible,” added Blomback.

Pats Peak also plans to update their rental equipment and offer wireless internet. For more information visit www.patspeak.com.